Go Rangers!

No John Lackey!!!!!!

Lackey will come back even better. People disregard what he went through this season because of the way he speaks/character to the media.

Lackey will come back even better. People disregard what he went through this season because of the way he speaks/character to the media.

I find that really hard to believe. It isn't every day that Sox fans are thrilled when a player goes through season-ending surgery.

Go Rangers!

No game Tonight,(rain) will instead be head to-head w/ Habs/B's, ;)

Lackey will come back even better. People disregard what he went through this season because of the way he speaks/character to the media.

It would be hard for him not to come back better since he had one of the all time worst statistical seasons for a starting pitcher in the history of the game. That doesn't even take into account his showing up teammates, coaches, and how he acts with the media. Even being marginally better would be a huge improvement.

Lackey will come back even better. People disregard what he went through this season because of the way he speaks/character to the media.


He'll only let up 7 runs a game? Yippie!

Lackey will come back even better. People disregard what he went through this season because of the way he speaks/character to the media.

Well hes statistically the worst pitcher in Red Sox history so the only way he can go is up.

so the only way he can go is up.

I wouldn't be so sure...

I was stunned to hear DB Felger interrupt Cherington numerous times today...

game 6 tonight. will be interesting to see how the rainout will affect texas. they had everything going for them coming out of game 5 and can definitely still win this.

what's sad is that baseball will be going away. this has been an awesome month of baseball, from the end of the regular season with two playoff spots being decided at the same time with 4 games going on to awesome games throughout the postseason.

game 6 tonight. will be interesting to see how the rainout will affect texas. they had everything going for them coming out of game 5 and can definitely still win this.

what's sad is that baseball will be going away. this has been an awesome month of baseball, from the end of the regular season with two playoff spots being decided at the same time with 4 games going on to awesome games throughout the postseason.
Indeed. I hope the cardinals pull this off after the way they got into the playoffs

game 6 tonight. will be interesting to see how the rainout will affect texas. they had everything going for them coming out of game 5 and can definitely still win this.

what's sad is that baseball will be going away. this has been an awesome month of baseball, from the end of the regular season with two playoff spots being decided at the same time with 4 games going on to awesome games throughout the postseason.

I do find that the end of season brings about a melancholy. But the anticipation of the new season will take over soon enough. I won't miss watching Larussa overmanage games. He's one reason why baseball has become almost unwatchable at times.

I find that really hard to believe. It isn't every day that Sox fans are thrilled when a player goes through season-ending surgery.

Well for what it's worth, it would be hard to imagine him coming back any worse, wouldn't it?

Happy anniversary, everyone.

http://www.toptenz.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2004-world-series.jpg

Better days are behind and hopefully ahead. It won't suck forever.

watching it blow up in his face the other night was the most joy i have had in a baseball game in a long time.

I like the idea of Mike Maddux as replacement for Tito.


Would take the load off getting an experienced pitching coach.

Happy anniversary, everyone.

http://www.toptenz.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/2004-world-series.jpg

Better days are behind and hopefully ahead. It won't suck forever.

We'll see, we have no idea what Big Ben is going to do as GM. I hope I'm wrong but I fear he's a puppet of Larry's. Looking at their track records with Larry, he helped run the Orioles into a state that they still haven't recovered from and Werner brought us the San Diego Padres and Larry was there too. Henry's too busy now playing with his new toy in England. I find it laughable as an owner to not back Francona if that's who he wanted. I think we'll be looking at a team next season trying to stay out of 4th place not contending. Hope I'm wrong.

@SI_JonHeyman
Jon Heyman
Hearing #redsox may make play for beltran. #giants will be in, too.

Thoughts?

@SI_JonHeyman
Jon Heyman
Hearing #redsox may make play for beltran. #giants will be in, too.

Thoughts?

An injury-prone 34 year old whose best days are probably behind him?

Wow, where do I sign?

Seriously: Pass. Feel like you'd be paying for past performance with him. And he's slowed down the last 2-3 years and I'd rather have a guy I can count on to cover the vast RF at Fenway.

For manager: I think I'm a Tim Wallach guy based on what I have read about the various candidates.

@SI_JonHeyman
Jon Heyman
Hearing #redsox may make play for beltran. #giants will be in, too.

Thoughts?

We're going to replace an underachieving, overpriced right fielder with another underachieving, overpriced right fielder? Where do I sign up? :sarcasm:

@SI_JonHeyman
Jon Heyman
Hearing #redsox may make play for beltran. #giants will be in, too.

Thoughts?

We're going to replaced an overpriced, underachieving right fielder with another overpriced, underachieving right fielder? Where do I sign up? :sarcasm:

@SI_JonHeyman
Jon Heyman
Hearing #redsox may make play for beltran. #giants will be in, too.

Thoughts?

I'd rather take Cuddeyer, thanks.

7 years ago tonight:

2004: sweep of the Cardinals

@SI_JonHeyman
Jon Heyman
Hearing #redsox may make play for beltran. #giants will be in, too.

Thoughts?

Nothing that won't get me banned here.

I would have zero problems with Beltran

BUT

it all depends on years/money. i think he could be a solid addition with reddick/kalish as a 4th outfielder.

I would have zero problems with Beltran

BUT

it all depends on years/money. i think he could be a solid addition with reddick/kalish as a 4th outfielder.

I agree if its relatively cheap money maybe 1 year with an option i'd be okay with it.

OT...but wow what a throw by Napoli. That's right where Suppan screwed up baserunning....

Should have resigned Beltre and traded Youk.

Should have resigned Beltre and traded Youk.

Imagine if Theo hadn't made the Gonzalez trade too? Right now, Pujols, Fielder, and Gonzalez would all be FAs. They could pick up whoever they wanted, plus they'd still have all those prospects. Ah well, hindsight is 20/20.

Well with JD Drew's money coming off the books that's 14 million for a FA. If we don't resign Ortiz that's 12.5, and another 12 if Papelbon doesn't come back. I'd personally like to keep both Paps and Ortiz but if the Sox don't keep them I can see Fielder or Pujols still a possibility with $36.5 million in freed up money.

With Lackey on the LTIR after his surgery is that money out of pocket or paid for by insurance?

This game is ****ing insane.

thatta boy Freese!

holy ****


you know people have different interests but i always read on here HOW CUD U LIKE BAS BAL. this is ****ing why.

I can't believe Feliz blew that save...

That was all Cruz's fault. Catchable ball.

should have been caught

Can't believe Junkie just hit that out.

best baseball game i have ever seen

about time for him. its over now

Touch 'em all, Josh. You'll never hit a bigger home run in your life!

I hope the Cards come back. I really like them.

Former Redsox legend Oliver on the mound to close it

Lets Go Rangers!

Gotta love Beltre.


I miss you man.

I cant handle this game

it is so epic

Got that 04 Red Sox never say die momentum right now. This is a team I wish he had guys. They keep crawling.



Mike Maddux is who I want for a coach.

I'm rooting for Texas, but I really respect this St. Louis team. They just won't quit.

How lucky was that? Bunted right up in the air, but Beltre couldn't get it...worked out perfectly for the Cards though.

Pujlos on deck omggg

**** me. 1 run game. **** is intense.

Can Lance Berkman deliever

Pujlos last AB as a Cardinal an INT Walk??

All on Berkman...you can't make this stuff up

NEVER, SAY, DIE!



WOW.


This is great.

Are you KIDDING me?! Unbelievable!

my brain is exploding omggggggggggggggggg

this game is insane!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

six to midnight

cant remember seeing a better game ... :handclap:

nothing in the world better than sports! unreal

I hope this game never ends

Jake Westbrook? Jesus

Freese Frame

Game over...seeyaladah!

DAVID. FREESE.

WOW.


talk about hometown hero.

most insane game i have ever seen

cant wait for game 7 wowwwwwwwwwwwwwww

best World Series of all time hands down

What a ****ing game. Holy ****.

Best two innings of baseball I've ever watched.

First Game 7 in nine years its about time

OK that?

That right there?

That... was BASEBALL.

http://fastcache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/11/2011/10/screen_shot_2011-10-28_at_1.09.52_am.jpg

win probability from last night.

baseball!

Worst played series in memory. Neither team can field to save their lives, both managers have no clue on what's going on. I can't see what's been so wonderful about this series. I would expect to see two teams playing to win not which team is going to screw up the least. I really loved watching Cruz do his Bobby Abreu imitation as he got close to the wall with the series to be won. This series has been an absolute travesty.

That was the craziest game I have ever seen! I can't decide if both teams refused to quit or if neither team wanted to win.Needless errors, pass balls, poor base running and timely hitting made this game one to remember.

That was definitely worth staying up for. Started watching in the 8th and just wanted to see the celebration. Couldn't believe the Cardinals kept coming back with two strikes and two outs.

If the Cards do win tonight, the championship DVD is going to be amazing. 10.5 back in the Wild Card and then everything that's happened in the playoffs. Wow, I'd almost consider buying it if I couldn't rent it or find it online.

Worst played series in memory. Neither team can field to save their lives, both managers have no clue on what's going on. I can't see what's been so wonderful about this series. I would expect to see two teams playing to win not which team is going to screw up the least. I really loved watching Cruz do his Bobby Abreu imitation as he got close to the wall with the series to be won. This series has been an absolute travesty.


Stop being s Debbie Downer!

When the Cards signed him, everyone was like "Lance Berkman......whaaaaa?"

Amazing comeback for him and the Cards.

Stop being s Debbie Downer!

I just like to see GOOD baseball, this is not good baseball. I don't care if I have a rooting interest in the game I just want to see professionals not play like they are in a beer league softball game (nothing against us mortals). These managers have been pathetic, Larussa is overrated and Washington is clueless, I don't care what some people here think of Francona but he looks like a genius compared to these guys.

For sheer drama I would agree with the compelling aspect of last night's game but I would not call this series anywhere near a classic.

Fair enough on Tito.


I often wonder how much coke Washington snorted during last nights game

I just like to see GOOD baseball, this is not good baseball. I don't care if I have a rooting interest in the game I just want to see professionals not play like they are in a beer league softball game (nothing against us mortals). These managers have been pathetic, Larussa is overrated and Washington is clueless, I don't care what some people here think of Francona but he looks like a genius compared to these guys.

For sheer drama I would agree with the compelling aspect of last night's game but I would not call this series anywhere near a classic.

"Classic" by your definition? Definitely not. Classic in terms of drama and excitement? Definitely. Gregg Zaun (analyzing the world series in Canada) mentioned that if the Cards didn't play like a bunch of sandlot kids they would have won in 5. I love good baseball but the errors, both mental and physical, are what have me captivated because anything can happen.

"Classic" by your definition? Definitely not. Classic in terms of drama and excitement? Definitely. Gregg Zaun (analyzing the world series in Canada) mentioned that if the Cards didn't play like a bunch of sandlot kids they would have won in 5. I love good baseball but the errors, both mental and physical, are what have me captivated because anything can happen.

I think thats why I've loved the series, that sandlot aspect of it. Thats where it all starts. Thats the dream. You envision yourself being at the world series. You remember what its like to play sandlot ball.


I for one was beyond captivated last night. Hometown kid, doing what he did.

Stellar.

Fair enough on Tito.


I often wonder how much coke Washington snorted during last nights game

I was thinking the same thing.

If the Rangers lose, Nelson Cruz better be the new Bill Buckner. What a chicken ****.

If the Rangers lose, Nelson Cruz better be the new Bill Buckner. What a chicken ****.

That's not fair to Buck. He was trying to make a play, Cruz ducked out and may have cost Texas the series.

If the Rangers lose, Nelson Cruz better be the new Bill Buckner. What a chicken ****.

buckner shouldn't even still be mentioned. there are so many other scapegoats in that series. cruz just has abreuitis.

buckner shouldn't even still be mentioned. there are so many other scapegoats in that series. cruz just has abreuitis.

I'm being more specific of the scenario, that's all. Happened in Game 6, helped the home team win, etc. If St. Louis wins tonight, his error will always be remembered as the error that cost Texas the World Series.

Man, this is just entertaining baseball.

Congrats Cards!!! Nice follow up from a unbelievable game 6!:handclap::handclap::handclap:

What a feel good Story David Freese is! I dunno how he held it together during the presentation/celebration, I would have been crying like a baby. The guy figuratively lived out every athletes DREAM

Make a movie.......

^ Thats what I say. Get on it, Disney.

Real happy for the Cards. Hope the Sox players and brass take a good look at this team and they way they played and supported each other.

I wasn't rooting for St. Louis, but they were a team of destiny and you gotta hand it to them for this run. Texas is becoming the Buffalo Bills of baseball.

I just woke up and missed the whole game. At least the Cardinals won.

Hearing that the Sox might sign Sizemore as a 4th outfielder.


I like the move if they do it. He's been hurt, but when he's not? He's a great hitter.

Hearing that the Sox might sign Sizemore as a 4th outfielder.


I like the move if they do it. He's been hurt, but when he's not? He's a great hitter.

I'm not a Reddick fan, so I have to assume Sizemore would start in right if they were to sign him.

Another all-lefty defense with a lefty 1B & lefty DH (if Ortiz returns).

With Youk's body kind of breaking down on him, who can be the big RH bat they've needed pretty much since Manny went from immature to brat to sociopath?

Meant outfield, not defense.

I would welcome it. Get some competition going with the others. I know they have interest in Beltran but I think its not worth it. I'd rather have Cuddeyer. But I think the interest in Sizemore is really interesting. I just love him as a player.

I don't want any part of Sizemore. He's a great talent, but can't stay healthy. Let someone else overpay him to sit on the DL.

I think outfield will be fine, my first priority right now would be solving the pitching problem. 1-3 starters I'm confident in, but with our 4 starter coming off a FULL season with an ERA over 6 I'm really worried.

Not ready to give up on Miller yet, one more year in Pawtucket. If he finds his control, we're looking at a pretty solid 4 or 5 starter.

I think outfield will be fine, my first priority right now would be solving the pitching problem. 1-3 starters I'm confident in, but with our 4 starter coming off a FULL season with an ERA over 6 I'm really worried.

Not ready to give up on Miller yet, one more year in Pawtucket. If he finds his control, we're looking at a pretty solid 4 or 5 starter.

Yeah you know that full season in which he pitched with a damage ligament that required TOmmy John.

Look I am by no means defending Lackey, but there at least was a cause for it.

In order of who I'd like to see manage this team:

1) Dave Martinez
2) Pete Mackanin
3) Mike Maddux
4) Ryne Sandberg
5) Brad Mills
5) DeMarlo Hale
6) Dave Sveum
7) Eric Wedge
8) Jerry Manuel
9) Sandy Alomar Jr.
10) A.J. Hinch

I want Mackanin and Maddux as pitching coach.


But I really liked how aggresive Sveum is when it comes to hitting. Idk, but I liked what I heard from Mackanin.

I want Mackanin and Maddux as pitching coach.


But I really liked how aggresive Sveum is when it comes to hitting. Idk, but I liked what I heard from Mackanin.

I did too, he impressed me a lot, I'd be shocked if he wasn't offered the job.

In order of who I'd like to see manage this team:

1) Dave Martinez
2) Pete Mackanin
3) Mike Maddux
4) Ryne Sandberg
5) Brad Mills
5) DeMarlo Hale
6) Dave Sveum
7) Eric Wedge
8) Jerry Manuel
9) Sandy Alomar Jr.
10) A.J. Hinch

It's funny how many former Montreal Expos players are on that list. And don't forget that Francona played his first 5 seasons in Montreal.

They got permission to speak with Maddux and Alomar Jr.


Hoping Mackanin & Maddux come on board. I like what theyve said. Sveum would be a good choice to. But probably won't get it.

Scoop them up before Epstein & the Cubs do!

I hope Ortiz isn't back next year.

Ortiz said: "I know everybody has priorities, and to be honest with you, I thought I was one of them.

I hope Ortiz isn't back next year.

Ortiz said: "I know everybody has priorities, and to be honest with you, I thought I was one of them.

Ortiz has been a huge baby the past few years. Why he hasn't realized that by simply producing the way he has is going to get him paid regardless is beyond me.

Sorry David, you aren't priority #1 for Ben Cherrington right now. That's finding a manager, and then adding pitching depth.

Get a clue.

Bought time Cherington fired the strength and conditioning coach.


Great move by him.

I cant believe people here are jumping on the get Ortiz out of town bandwagon (NO on second thought I can believe it). It would be one thing if you didn't want a steroider around but no, people are just tired of him and his moodiness. For 25 Hrs and 90 plus R.B.I I will gladly put up with this...Red Sox ownership simply wants to dump Ortiz in order to put a great era to bed and that is too bad. Worse yet the reactionary media types, like Tanguay, and to an extent Felger, are jumping all over it-to say n othing of some reactionary fans.

If you have the best DH in the league by far you keep that advantage. You dont do something stupid like hope for Youkilis, Lowrie, Aviles Rotation as was Tanguay's suggestion......This reminds me a bit of 1980 when Leroux conveneiently forgot to tender Lynn and Fisk Free agent offers because they mailed the contracts too late......They pulled their fat out of the fire with a last minute Lynn trade but the idea of making chaos an exuse for neglect and cheaping out is the same.

Again...The Sox are using whatever they can to end a great era and letting go of Ortiz for no good reason will be the symbol of that.

if people want to get rid of youkilis and ortiz because they have replacements for them, fine.

if we're going to sit here and say "well, middlebrooks might be ready in two years!" and have nothing in the meantime, i'd rather keep my .400 obping 3b. same with ortiz. this is a bad free agent market, guys. ortiz is coming off a pretty good year and sending him out without a replacement makes the team worse.

I'm not on the bandwagon, they should keep him. But David is a huge baby if he can't realize why he isn't priority number 1 right now. Again, get a clue Ortiz.

it's just annoying things that you have to put up with. if ortiz was coming off a season where he ops'ed like....600? yeah you tell him to **** off. but he's still one of your better middle of the order bats. if they haven't even called his agent to let him know whether they're bringing him back, i can kind of understand his point.

if people want to get rid of youkilis and ortiz because they have replacements for them, fine.

if we're going to sit here and say "well, middlebrooks might be ready in two years!" and have nothing in the meantime, i'd rather keep my .400 obping 3b. same with ortiz. this is a bad free agent market, guys. ortiz is coming off a pretty good year and sending him out without a replacement makes the team worse.

I agree. I'd offer Ortiz a 2-year deal at whatever money he wants. After what he's done for the team he deserves it.

not because of what he's done for the team but because he's still a productive player, make no mistake on that. the whole "what he did for the team" nonsense is why jason varitek's corpse was in the lineup the last two seasons. ortiz is coming off his first .900 ops season since 2007. coincidentally it was in a contract year, yes. but it's still worth keeping him around on a short team deal.

like i said, if he's just acting like an ass because he's not signed yet, i get that he's a headache. but if his agent hasn't even been called and he doesn't know what the red sox are doing? that's bad.

Sounds like the same situation with Damon back in '05. Turmoil led to overlooking certain details.

The Red Sox can afford to take these risks and sink a ton of money into a designated hitter only unlike a lot of other teams. That said, don't bemoan the eventual signing if Ortiz's production falls off the table, as it's absolutely bound to do soon.

it becomes less of a risk the shorter the contract. and even so, he wouldn't be crippling the team on both offense and defense since he only plays first, like, six games a year.

even so, looking it up, cherington has spoken to ortiz's representatives. so that's good. a one or two year deal, if ortiz is interested, is pretty smart.




by the way, anyone else following the orioles' search for a gm? it's turning sad. their two leading candidates are off the table, dipoto took the angels job and lacava turned them down to stay assistant in toronto.

it becomes less of a risk the shorter the contract. and even so, he wouldn't be crippling the team on both offense and defense since he only plays first, like, six games a year.

even so, looking it up, cherington has spoken to ortiz's representatives. so that's good. a one or two year deal, if ortiz is interested, is pretty smart.




by the way, anyone else following the orioles' search for a gm? it's turning sad. their two leading candidates are off the table, dipoto took the angels job and lacava turned them down to stay assistant in toronto.

Baird said he was staying in Boston too. Whose left besides Duquette?


Also Jim Thome signed with the Phillies.

Baird said he was staying in Boston too. Whose left besides Duquette?


Also Jim Thome signed with the Phillies.

I hope Duquette gets it. He had a big role in building the '04 team and deserves another chance. Besides, with everyone dropping out, he seems to be the best choice.

I hope Duquette gets it. He had a big role in building the '04 team and deserves another chance. Besides, with everyone dropping out, he seems to be the best choice.

I agree. Even with the time away from the game, Duquette seems like a quality talent evaluator and person. I'd love to see him back in the game.

http://rotoworld.com/player/mlb/4498/jonathan-sanchez

Please. Trade. For.

Maybe a Youk/Sanchez type of exchange?

http://rotoworld.com/player/mlb/4498/jonathan-sanchez

Please. Trade. For.

Maybe a Youk/Sanchez type of exchange?

Ughh, never been a fan...walks way too many guys for my liking (4.8 BB/9 for his career, 5.9/9 last year). And I know SF has a terrible offense but 1B/3B are two areas where they might be OK, with Sandoval and Belt.

Not a Sanchez fan either. He has talent but is much too wild and erratic. Let us not forget, he may be breaking down but this is still Youkilis, one of the toughest out in the league three out of the last four years.....Resounding no on this one which sounds fabricated anyway.

Looks like Duquette will in fact be named the new GM of the Orioles. Good for him, definitely deserves another chance. But what about the mess that is the O's?? According to mlbtraderumors.com Buster Olney reported that about "a dozen assistant-level executives have passed on interviewing for the Orioles' still vacant GM job." Ouch.

I don't think there is anything saying the Sox are interested in Sanchez, just that SF might be looking to deal him, which, IMO, makes a lot of sense. He is going to be making a pretty sizable chunk of money and they already have Lincecum/Cain/Bumgarner with Vogelsong (not that I think he will ever come close to last year, but should be a cheap, decent #4 starter) and Zito (who, while terrible, I assume SF will give a rotation spot to because of his contract more than anything) to fill out the rotation. They could probably get a team desperate for pitching to overpay for a guy like Sanchez (great stuff, still young, but may never put it all together).

it's just annoying things that you have to put up with. if ortiz was coming off a season where he ops'ed like....600? yeah you tell him to **** off. but he's still one of your better middle of the order bats. if they haven't even called his agent to let him know whether they're bringing him back, i can kind of understand his point.

Disagree - their priorities are in line with where they should be: they just installed a new GM and they're looking for a new manager. Both take precedence over any player transactions.

You don't start throwing around 12M+ AAV contracts before you have a manager who might not get along with him. If you do, you might be inviting trouble. Ortiz would have a point if they had already been making moves or re-signing other big-money players. Instead, they've only picked up the no-brainer option for Scutaro. Ortiz's contract (or any personnel move that includes protracted negotiations) is a stickier issue, and if he can't understand that then that might be part of the reason why the Red Sox might want to part ways with him.

Mike Maddux pulls his name from consideration for Sox managerial opening. Likely a mutual decision.

https://twitter.com/#!/ESPNJoeyMac/status/133649921403404288

http://rotoworld.com/player/mlb/4498/jonathan-sanchez

Please. Trade. For.

Maybe a Youk/Sanchez type of exchange?

Well, the Royals beat you to it.

Mike Maddux pulls his name from consideration for Sox managerial opening. Likely a mutual decision.

https://twitter.com/#!/ESPNJoeyMac/status/133649921403404288

I'll take Mackanin then.

Well, the Royals beat you to it.

can't wait to see sanchez. he looks really flaky and walks a lot of guys. the central is a bad division but by and large, the american league is obviously a better hitting league. sanchez's velocity ticked down and he had to rely on his changeup more this year, after six weeks on the disabled list with biceps tendinitis following a month where he walked almost 9 hitters per nine innings. he's just not a good option. it's a decent move for the royals as cabrera isn't going to repeat last year and they aren't going to be worse off without him. both guys could catch on but both guys could bust. i would lean towards the latter.

Like boy wonder Theo, Duquette wasn't perfect, but he was a solid GM. Would have been interesting to see how he would have done under this ownership. He wasn't given that chance.

Anyway, what's the news on the next manager?

Can someone further educate me on Yoennis Cespedes? I saw the Red Sox where interested in him.

I would let Ortiz walk and DH Youk

I would let Ortiz walk and DH Youk

Or let Ortiz walk and shop Youk.

Or let Ortiz walk and shop Youk.

yeah, who needs a middle of the order?

yeah, who needs a middle of the order?

Because there are just no free agents worth pursuing with the ~25M they'd likely be pulling down next year.

pujols isn't leaving. paying fielder a billion dollars to be a dh when you have a perfectly fine dh on the team right now is short-sighted. you'd be paying a lot more for a bit more production. youkilis/ortiz cost the red sox 24.75 million dollars last season. for excellent production in two spots. that's hard to replace.

pujols isn't leaving. paying fielder a billion dollars to be a dh when you have a perfectly fine dh on the team right now is short-sighted. you'd be paying a lot more for a bit more production. youkilis/ortiz cost the red sox 24.75 million dollars last season. for excellent production in two spots. that's hard to replace.

How much longer do you really expect to get that production out of them? Ortiz is "36" and Youk will be 33 by next season.

33 isn't old and that it's actually right around the time you often see a small resurgence from some players, but the great hitters who continue to play well into their mid- to late- 30's are the ones with the simplest swings. Youk has one of the game's most complicated, physically taxing swings. Coupled with the fact that last year was one of his worst seasons statistically and that he's missed significant stretches for each of the last two years, is that just a coincidence or are we starting to see his decline?

If you shop him and get a hotshot prospect, I don't think too many people would shed a tear. If you shop him and you don't get the offer, you hold on to him and use him as the DH. Fairly simple.

If you get a strong offer for Youkilis, you'd have to strongly consider it. You could then offer Reyes something like 7yr/$140M with an opt-out after 3 years. He'll only be 31 after 3 years so if he performs well I can't see him not opting out and trying for a better deal a la Sabathia. It would be a win for both sides.

You could then move Lowire to 3B. He'll be 28 next season so it's sink or swim time. If he doesn't work out you give Middlebrooks the chance in 2013.

Can someone further educate me on Yoennis Cespedes? I saw the Red Sox where interested in him.

From what I've read/seen, the guy is a machine. His amatuer scouting video his people put out is not only hilarious, but shows what he can do too. Its on youtube if you wanna see. He does some NFL combine drills in it...looks like he'd help the Pats..but I digress!


He led his league..division whatever it is, he led it with 33 homers, 89 runs, 99 rbis in 90 games last year. His line was .333 .424.677. The guy is a pure power hitter.

he might need a stint in the minors, but he's got the tools to be a big star. he'll fetch his money, no doubt.

Is this guy serious?

http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/red-sox/post/_/id/15306/video-crawford-will-bounce-back-but?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

^ what is that guy smoking?


What an idiot.

If you get a strong offer for Youkilis, you'd have to strongly consider it. You could then offer Reyes something like 7yr/$140M with an opt-out after 3 years. He'll only be 31 after 3 years so if he performs well I can't see him not opting out and trying for a better deal a la Sabathia. It would be a win for both sides.

You could then move Lowire to 3B. He'll be 28 next season so it's sink or swim time. If he doesn't work out you give Middlebrooks the chance in 2013.

Yeah, no thanks.

Corner infielders are such strong hitters that if the Sox waste that spot on an inconsistent, injury-plagued guy with no power, they're asking to miss the playoffs again. It'd be one thing if Lowrie were a catcher, but he's only a mediocre SS when he's healthy.

I'm done with Lowrie - they need to move on and I hope that they will.

[QUOTE=FutureConsiderations;39203085]Yeah, no thanks.

:handclap::handclap:

What the ****?

http://www.csnwashington.com/baseball-washington-nationals/news/Nats-Ramos-kidnapped-in-Venezuela?blockID=591248&feedID=6458

What the ****?

http://www.csnwashington.com/baseball-washington-nationals/news/Nats-Ramos-kidnapped-in-Venezuela?blockID=591248&feedID=6458

Why is this a surprise? I mean aside from someone getting out of one of those countries and going back and subjecting themself to that risk.

^ what is that guy smoking?


What an idiot.

I can see why he's no longer a gm.

Henry's not an owner that meddles in player personnel decisions. Crawford staying or going would be decided by Cherington.

What the ****?

http://www.csnwashington.com/baseball-washington-nationals/news/Nats-Ramos-kidnapped-in-Venezuela?blockID=591248&feedID=6458

ESPN/Washington Post now reporting Ramos is alive, but there will be no further comment from either MLB or the Nationals per MLB's Division of Investigations.....

Ransom demands I bet.

If you get a strong offer for Youkilis, you'd have to strongly consider it. You could then offer Reyes something like 7yr/$140M with an opt-out after 3 years. He'll only be 31 after 3 years so if he performs well I can't see him not opting out and trying for a better deal a la Sabathia. It would be a win for both sides.

You could then move Lowire to 3B. He'll be 28 next season so it's sink or swim time. If he doesn't work out you give Middlebrooks the chance in 2013.

Reyes is not a 20 mil a year player and Lowrie would last 3 games in lineup before he was on the DL again with some issue. He was the only player that made Drew look like an Ironman.

Reyes is not a 20 mil a year player and Lowrie would last 3 games in lineup before he was on the DL again with some issue. He was the only player that made Drew look like an Ironman.

Carl Crawford isn't a $20 Mill per year guy either, yet they went out and overpaid for him...:naughty:

Lowrie doesnt even belong with the Sox, nevermind in some kind of rotation or a starting position. Problems is I hear the market for Utility infeilders who don't always hustle, who can't defend and who cant stay healthy is not so good.

Phillies sign Papelbon per 98.5

Sox had zero intention of resigning him, so it's not a surprise. They're going to take the picks and be happy. Stupid move, as I thought he was more important that bringing back Papi. They'll probably let him walk too though. They love them some of those type 1 sandwich picks.

4 years approaching 50mil dollars. so 12mil-13mil a year or something similar.

just add this to the long list of holes they need to fill.

Bad move. Bad bad bad move.


They shouldnt have let Pap go. This will come back to haunt us.

I'm not surprised. I wonder what is going to happen now.

Bad move. Bad bad bad move.


They shouldnt have let Pap go. This will come back to haunt us.

I agree. Papelbon didn't exactly set the last 2 seasons on fire but I doubt if there is anyone out there who would be better. And there isn't anyone on the Red Sox roster now who is ready IMO.

I'd have let Ortiz go before Papelbon. Big Papi is 36-37 years old and without chemical assistance he doesn't produce like he used to.

Hope Cherington has a clue.

Any news on the managerial front?

Bard isn't ready to close.

What about Heath Bell?

Ugh. I'm pissed about this.

I'm not surprised. I wonder what is going to happen now.

It's bobby jenks time!! Yahooooooo!!! Oh wait, he pulled his shoulder reaching for a bucket of fried chicken. It's Daniel Bard time!!! Yahooooo. Oh wait, he can't handle pressure? Nevermind. They're screwed. :naughty:

In all seriousness, I'd love for them to take a run at Heath Bell. Dude is lights out.

Not that I agree with letting Pap go, but I'd still rather give Bard the chance than overpay for any available closer on the market.

Bard isn't ready to close.

What about Heath Bell?

Ugh. I'm pissed about this.

Beat me to it!

Too bad Bard was awful towards the end of the season. When he was lights out for a couple of months, I was fine with letting Papelbon walk but now I'm not so sure.

I like Heath Bell and I'm not too sure what to think of K-Rod right now. He was bad with the Mets but then pitched well for the Brewers. However, the situations were completely different because he wasn't closing for the Brewers so he had no pressure on him. I think he would be cheaper than Papelbon/Bell but he also might suck.

The two guys I absolutely don't want are Madson and Nathan. I hope they stay far away from those guys.

Andrew Bailey is rumoured to be available as well but his injury history makes him a risk. Especially if Oakland is asking for a lot in return.

Atleast the Red Sox will get two draft picks for Papelbon. Gotta think of the positives, right?

K-Rod is a free agent. :sarcasm:

So ends the era I was hoping they would keep Pap and dump Ortiz if it came to that. Of course they did not even need to do that either. There are loads of closers available Broxton Bell Cordero I think Street etc........but bad move for the Sox. If, as rumored, they sign the mediocre setup man Ryan Madson to replace Pap, I will be steamed.

Not that I agree with letting Pap go, but I'd still rather give Bard the chance than overpay for any available closer on the market.

Agreed... 48M/4 years is a TON of money for a pitcher who will throw something like 4% of the total innings who will be pitched. That's a LOT of money...

Once the Phillies deal with Madsen fell through I had no doubt in my mind this was going to happen. 12.5 million/year doesn't seem too crazy, so I assume it was the number of years Boston wasn't willing to match...unless Papelbon didn't want to come back anyways. Count me as another one who would have rather have had Papelbon than Ortiz going forwards.

So one of their biggest weak spots gets significantly weaker...ugh. I don't think the ability to do what Papelbon has done over the last 5 or so years (closing in Boston, with that pressure) can be understated...I don't trust any of the available options to do nearly as well. I don't think you really appreciate what you have in terms of a reliable closer until it's gone. This sucks.

If, as rumored, they sign the mediocre setup man Ryan Madson to replace Pap, I will be steamed.

Especially if it is anywhere near the 4 year/44 million that he was close to signing for with the Phils.

Heyman says the Red Sox, Rangers, and Blue Jays are interested in Madson :facepalm:

Hopefully the Nats or Jays get him.

Phillies sign Papelbon per 98.5

Well that stinks!! :shakehead

@HeidiWatney
Heidi Watney
Before everyone panics remember, with the exception of Mariano Rivera, closers can be volatile... a 4-year deal is long time to rely on Pap.
3 minutes ago

If I was Boston I think I would be looking at either Bell or K-Rod now...maybe even lean towards Rodriguez (who is actually younger than Madsen) just because I have some reservations about Bell going to a hitters friendly park and because his K/9 went from over 10 the last two years to 7 this past season.

@HeidiWatney
Heidi Watney
Before everyone panics remember, with the exception of Mariano Rivera, closers can be volatile... a 4-year deal is long time to rely on Pap.
3 minutes ago

Yes and to never have the second best or best closer in Baseball to rely on ever again in all probability is an awfully long time too....Well at least the company line didn't come from Lucchino...........

Heath Bell is the guy. Go get him.

Good riddance Papelbon. I know what he did for us, but he didn't do plenty as well.

I'll miss Pap, but what are you gonna do. I think they need to clean house anyway.

Before everyone panics remember, with the exception of Mariano Rivera, closers can be volatile... a 4-year deal is long time to rely on Pap.

While I agree with that I think I would have been much more comfortable about letting him go if he was coming off a season like 2010, and not after a season that was comparable to his first couple when he was absolutely lights out.

While I agree with that I think I would have been much more comfortable about letting him go if he was coming off a season like 2010, and not after a season that was comparable to his first couple when he was absolutely lights out.

5th year ( vesting option ) too... I think Philly will regret this deal...

The last 3 seasons, when you really needed Pap, I had no confidence in him. I think he padded a lot of stats with 2 or 3 run leads against garbage teams.

2009 playoffs...blew it
2010...pretty much blew all season
2011....down the stretch when the team needed someone to step up among the pitching staff....he was as big a choker as the rest of them.

Plus I personally think his personality is annoying as hell. Thanks for the memories Pap, but I won't miss you.

2011....down the stretch when the team needed someone to step up among the pitching staff....he was as big a choker as the rest of them.


That's just not true. Paps was dramatically overused over the last couple of games. He may have blown the deciding game, but it was the fault of the other players that this was such an important game.
JP's last season with us was basically lights-out, that's why this deal with the Phillies is not surprising at all.

I take a long hard look at Joe Nathan- no comp picks, two years removed from TJ surgery. I liked Papelbon but there are plenty of pitchers who can be part of successful bullpen. Look at the Rays a few years ago- explore the Jay Howell's of the world. sometimes in your own system you have a guy with a dominating pitch who can a component of a 7-9th inning.

They'll be fine- remember a week ago when the Bruins were 3-7 and nobody panicked here- same for the Sox it will work out.

I'm on record the Red Sox next July are in first place and life is good.

I take a long hard look at Joe Nathan- no comp picks, two years removed from TJ surgery. I liked Papelbon but there are plenty of pitchers who can be part of successful bullpen. Look at the Rays a few years ago- explore the Jay Howell's of the world. sometimes in your own system you have a guy with a dominating pitch who can a component of a 7-9th inning.

They'll be fine- remember a week ago when the Bruins were 3-7 and nobody panicked here- same for the Sox it will work out.

I'm on record the Red Sox next July are in first place and life is good.

I really like the idea but do you think he's a better option then Bard at this point?

I take a long hard look at Joe Nathan- no comp picks, two years removed from TJ surgery. I liked Papelbon but there are plenty of pitchers who can be part of successful bullpen. Look at the Rays a few years ago- explore the Jay Howell's of the world. sometimes in your own system you have a guy with a dominating pitch who can a component of a 7-9th inning.

They'll be fine- remember a week ago when the Bruins were 3-7 and nobody panicked here- same for the Sox it will work out.

I'm on record the Red Sox next July are in first place and life is good.

Nathan is a playoff choker though.


Not sure if I'm supposed to lol or not though. I mean I guess if he's leaving the Sox, I'm glad he's going to the Phillies. But I was sort of ready to be done with him.

Heath Bell is the only guy I'd want and sadly it prob won't happen. He's devoted to San Diego.

But I'd try everything and anything to get him here.

Nathan is a playoff choker though.


Not sure if I'm supposed to lol or not though. I mean I guess if he's leaving the Sox, I'm glad he's going to the Phillies. But I was sort of ready to be done with him.

Well, Papelbon choked as well in the most important game for us this season...

Heath Bell is the only guy I'd want and sadly it prob won't happen. He's devoted to San Diego.

But I'd try everything and anything to get him here.

He said he would like to stay on the West Coast (SD, LA, ANA) but he would also love to play for Boston or Philly.

Also, it might not mean too much when millions are being thrown at him but I thought he was good friends with Adrian Gonzalez? I remember when the Gonzalez trade happened, people were speculating that the Red Sox were also trying to get Bell.

@HeidiWatney
Heidi Watney
Before everyone panics remember, with the exception of Mariano Rivera, closers can be volatile... a 4-year deal is long time to rely on Pap.
3 minutes ago

LOL. Thanks Heidi......who told you to write that?

LOL. Thanks Heidi......who told you to write that?

Carmine

I really like the idea but do you think he's a better option then Bard at this point?

sometimes you have to get creative here- look around, guys like Eckersley or Worrell or even Rivera who were starters but unsuccessful at that stage of their careers. I'd rather have had Papelbon but I wouldn't get in the fetal position just yet.

Bard may be the answer, but the bullpen looked a lot better on paper with Pap, Bard, and Aceves patrolling the 7th on. did anyone in April think the bullpen in October for the Cardinals would be what it was.

The Red Sox have a problem in that there are plenty of legitimate closers available for once, and no setup men other than Madson......................Bard doesnt have the stamina to close and if rumors are to be believed he want to start which I think is the worst idea since starting Pappelbon. I might go with Nathan he is on the downside and had plenty of chokes against the Yankees in his prime,but at this point I think he would either setup or close.

The Red Sox have a problem in that there are plenty of legitimate closers available for once, and no setup men other than Madson......................Bard doesnt have the stamina to close and if rumors are to be believed he want to start which I think is the worst idea since starting Pappelbon. I might go with Nathan he is on the downside and had plenty of chokes against the Yankees in his prime,but at this point I think he would either setup or close.

I don't understand, how is that a problem? Red Sox already have a set up man (Bard) and need a closer.

Sure they lose Papelbon but there are plenty of good closers out there. Papelbon isn't too much better than Bell.

I don't understand, how is that a problem? Red Sox already have a set up man (Bard) and need a closer.

Sure they lose Papelbon but there are plenty of good closers out there. Papelbon isn't too much better than Bell.

Bar,d like anyone with good stuff, doesnt want to set up, there is not nearly as much money in it or glamour in it as closing or starting.

I don't understand, how is that a problem? Red Sox already have a set up man (Bard) and need a closer.

Sure they lose Papelbon but there are plenty of good closers out there. Papelbon isn't too much better than Bell.

Bard isn't ready to close in my opinion. He needs more time. And I wouldnt not sign a closer for him.


I'd sign a proven closer. We have enough problems already. This is another headache.


Bell or bust.

Apparently the Marlins have already made contract offers to Pujols, Reyes, and Buehrle....I guess they aren't messing around.

Good, Papelbon would give me a heart attack every time he pitched. I think he's really going to slow down soon. Hitters are going to catch up with his fastball.

Sign Madson

Bard isn't ready to close in my opinion. He needs more time. And I wouldnt not sign a closer for him.


I'd sign a proven closer. We have enough problems already. This is another headache.


Bell or bust.

A "proven" closer? Relief pitching will always be a crapshoot. Let Bard do it. Signing closers to big contracts never works out well.

Bar,d like anyone with good stuff, doesnt want to set up, there is not nearly as much money in it or glamour in it as closing or starting.

Well he should have thought about that before he completely choked in September. If he kept pitching the way he was earlier in the season, he would be the closer right now. I guess he still could be the closer but it seems like the Red Sox want to bring in a proven guy.

I saw a tweet earlier in the day where one of the Red Sox reporters said Aceves will probably start so not only do we need a new closer, we also need a new 7th inning guy. I don't trust Jenks at all.

A "proven" closer? Relief pitching will always be a crapshoot. Let Bard do it. Signing closers to big contracts never works out well.

I dont trust bard as our closer, plain and simple.


We'd be fools if we didnt look for a closer.

,ya think maybe Sox will think about converting Bowden? They did it with Papelbon,That kid is big intimidating and throws hard too.If not my bet Bard,,

,ya think maybe Sox will think about converting Bowden? They did it with Papelbon,That kid is big intimidating and throws hard too.If not my bet Bard,,

Bowden did well closing in Pawtucket this season...can't imagine the Sox giving him the job...but I could see him being a 6th/7th inning guy.

I'd like to see them take a chance on Brad Lidge as long as the price isn't too high. Have him close and keep Bard in the set-up role. You'll end up with a deeper bullpen than if you moved Bard to closer.

Count me in for giving the job to Bard.

I know there's no salary cap in baseball, but I don't agree with the business decision to throw similar money at a closer that's less proven than Papelbon. Lots of closers come out of nowhere every year, and plenty of other closers fall from grace every year. Not a position I'm willing to commit a ton of money to unless it was a homegrown World Series champ like Papelbon.

^ you wouldnt give money to Bell?

^ you wouldnt give money to Bell?

Not dead-set against it, but a 34 year-old getting probably a lot of money who was pitching for the Padres in a pitcher's park coming to the AL East with the Red Sox under a ton of pressure this season...I don't like the set up and I think I can see where it's going.

I think the Red Sox' days of going for the biggest name and, in failing that, going for the 2nd biggest name, and so on, should at least take a hiatus if not be gone forever.

I do think they need some legit bullpen arms, as always, but I don't buy into paying somebody a huge premium because he's a closer. If you can get 2 excellent bullpen arms that aren't traditional closers for the price of a Heath Bell, I'd rather do that.

Bard was rumored to be moved into the rotation at some point, remember we only have 3 legit starters despite winning 90.....

I'll just leave this here

http://p.twimg.com/AeBHrv1CEAAVzW5.jpg:large

I'll just leave this here

http://p.twimg.com/AeBHrv1CEAAVzW5.jpg:large

Those are terrible even worse then the Marlins previous symbol, if that is even possible.

Count me in for giving the job to Bard.

I know there's no salary cap in baseball, but I don't agree with the business decision to throw similar money at a closer that's less proven than Papelbon. Lots of closers come out of nowhere every year, and plenty of other closers fall from grace every year. Not a position I'm willing to commit a ton of money to unless it was a homegrown World Series champ like Papelbon.

Yep... he should be the " go to guy " starting now. Most of people base their opinions on last September regarding Bard's ability to close but if these people follow their logic through the end, it would also mean that Beckett and Lester are not legit starter. If you look at the past two years ( http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/mlb/players/8470/splits;_ylt=AgnS4eZ6V_JVab1__LrISUfJbQM6 ), i think it's clear that the guy can take more responsibilities.

I'll just leave this here

http://p.twimg.com/AeBHrv1CEAAVzW5.jpg:large

I didn't know they changed their name to Miami!! I've got to pay more attention. Now we just need them to move to the American League so they can play the Cubs in the 2025 series. Can't wait to put some money on the Cubs to win it all in 2025!!

Bowden did well closing in Pawtucket this season...can't imagine the Sox giving him the job...but I could see him being a 6th/7th inning guy.

Never followed him that close this yr but i know he can throw hard and is big,Thanks for insight.

I didn't know they changed their name to Miami!! I've got to pay more attention. Now we just need them to move to the American League so they can play the Cubs in the 2025 series. Can't wait to put some money on the Cubs to win it all in 2025!!

Ugh, I wish Doc had never built that infernal time machine.

Gammons twittered that two years ago the Braves rejected a Vazquez/Papelbon deal....before trading him to the Yankees....win/win for the Sox on that one.

http://twitter.com/#!/pgammo/status/135340023343104000

Also, according to Rosenthal Boston wouldn't give 4 years to Papelbon.

http://twitter.com/#!/Ken_Rosenthal/status/135375345011539968

This pretty much means bye bye Drew and Ortiz.

I love the total clean out that is going on, it makes the Sox interesting again, Lackey needs to go too.

Drew
Ortiz
Lackey

All need to go.

This pretty much means bye bye Drew and Ortiz.

I love the total clean out that is going on, it makes the Sox interesting again, Lackey needs to go too.

Drew
Ortiz
Lackey

All need to go.

JD wasn't returning anyway, he's done, done.... Lack, as everyone's aware isn't pitching this year.

This pretty much means bye bye Drew and Ortiz.

I love the total clean out that is going on, it makes the Sox interesting again, Lackey needs to go too.

Drew
Ortiz
Lackey

All need to go.

Ummm..I am not sure you needed this as a sign that Drew wasnt coming back. That was a foregone conclusion.

I knew JD wasn't coming back, duh. Just pointing out the inflated contracts that are/need to be gone asap.

After next year Dice K will be gone too, there's another genius move Theo made that came back to bite us in the ass, more money we can use for younger pitching in the future.

I knew JD wasn't coming back, duh. Just pointing out the inflated contracts that are/need to be gone asap.

Ok, but thats not what you said.

2010:
Daniel Bard: 3 saves, 7 blown saves
Jonathan Papelbon: 37 saves, 8 blown saves

2011:
Daniel Bard: 1 save, 5 blown saves
Jonathan Papelbon: 31 saves, 3 blown saves




Yep, Bard is totally ready to be a closer.


And yes, I know that he's got plenty of holds, but just because he's a somewhat reliable setup guy doesn't mean he'll be a good closer. He has the velocity of a young Papelbon, but Pap's fastball had rare movement on it while he was in his prime. Bard's fastball has never shown anything close to that kind of movement.

2010:
Daniel Bard: 3 saves, 7 blown saves
Jonathan Papelbon: 37 saves, 8 blown saves

2011:
Daniel Bard: 1 save, 5 blown saves
Jonathan Papelbon: 31 saves, 3 blown saves




Yep, Bard is totally ready to be a closer.
All that shows is Bard and Papelbon have blown almost the same amount of leads over the past two years.

All that shows is Bard and Papelbon have blown almost the same amount of leads over the past two years.

Yeah, one in 16 opportunities, one in 68 opportunities.

Blown saves are given in any inning, not just the 9th.

According to B-ref, Bard pitched in 82 "save situations" over the past 2 years, Papelbon in 79.

Blown saves are given in any inning, not just the 9th.

So what? Bard has gotten his fair share of save opportunities over the last two seasons and he hasn't proven he can be a closer.

Blown saves are given in any inning, not just the 9th.

According to B-ref, Bard pitched in 82 "save situations" over the past 2 years, Papelbon in 79.

Yes, but if Bard blows a save situation, it's no longer a save situation for Papelbon.

So what?
So adding blown saves and saves together and comparing them with another player when one pitches the 7th and 8th while the other pitches the 9th makes no sense and yields no useful information.

I used to collect baseball cards of the expansion Florida Marlins in 1993 because I liked their colors.

I would trade my Rockies cards to my friend for Marlins.

Who could ever pass up the opportunity to get a Scott Chiamparino, Pat Rapp, Nigel Wilson, or Bret Barberie card?

Anyways, I'd like to see a lot of new faces next year....Papelbon is gone....Hopefully Ortiz and Drew will sign elsewhere.

So adding blown saves and saves together and comparing them with another player when one pitches the 7th and 8th while the other pitches the 9th makes no sense and yields no useful information.

You seem to be implying that because Bard is an acceptable setup guy, he'd be a good closer. Talk about apples to oranges.

Most setup guys would have a similar saves:blown saves ratio as Bard.

Yes, but if Bard blows a save situation, it's no longer a save situation for Papelbon.

and if Papelbon blows a save situation it is usually a loss....

If you really want to compare the two in terms of how often they "blow it" you need to compare Bard's holds/blown saves and Papelbon's saves/blown saves....and as one poster above showed they have been almost equal the last two years.

and if Papelbon blows a save situation it is usually a loss....

If you really want to compare the two in terms of how often they "blow it" you need to compare Bard's holds/blown saves and Papelbon's saves/blown saves....and as one poster above showed they have been almost equal the last two years.

But a hold is a hell of a lot less pressure than a save - we've all seen good setup guys fail as closers and vice versa.

My point is just that the Sox need to go out and bring in a good closer because Bard hasn't proven he can be relied on in that spot.

Yes, a save is more pressure than a hold in that a save and a blown save is usually the difference between a win and a loss....but alot of the time the most important part of the game is before the 9th inning, not to mention setup men usually come into the game with runners on or in the middle of an inning, which I imagine is much more difficult than starting an inning.

Having said all that....I would prefer to see them bring in a closer and leave Bard as the setup man. I think he could do well enough as the closer, but I don't know if I want to risk it. If he craps the bed as the closer they will need to find a decent one and Bard's confidence might be so shot that he would be useless as a set-up man as well.

I hear Theo's voice whenever Cherington is talking.

I hear Theo's voice whenever Cherington is talking.

A little bit, but thus far he's been more transparent with the media than Theo was. Maybe it's that it's early on and he's trying to establish himself, but I read his comments on Boston.com where he talks about the structure of the team with/without Ortiz, and it reached a level of detail that I don't remember Theo embracing.

And so much for Ortiz's Rodney Dangerfield act - Cherington basically said that dealing with Ortiz is his top priority.

But a hold is a hell of a lot less pressure than a save - we've all seen good setup guys fail as closers and vice versa.

My point is just that the Sox need to go out and bring in a good closer because Bard hasn't proven he can be relied on in that spot.

Exactly. People who are set up men also have a much different mentality than closers as well most of the time. I'm not sure Bard, despite having great stuff, has the right mental framework to be a closer. If they do give him the job, he'll get some saves based on his stuff alone, but that doesn't mean I'd want him on the hill in a game 7 for all the marbles.

Heath Bell heard that the Sox might be interested in him & he said he'd like it. Playing with A-Gon again would be plus.


Get on it, Cherington!!!

Heath Bell heard that the Sox might be interested in him & he said he'd like it. Playing with A-Gon again would be plus.


Get on it, Cherington!!!

I hope he doesnt have a heart attack on the mound.

^ if he wears his ninja turtle backpack, he'll be fine.


He's a great closer. I'd rather have him than Madsen.

Dont worry everyone according to 985 the Sox are interested in Freddy Garcia. Bens got this

I would love Bell (I mentioned him as the guy I wanted when Paps signed with the Phils), but the size of the park he pitched in, and the division make me somewhat apprehensive about how a transition to Fenway and the AL East would go. I'd still love for them to make a serious run, but I do have some small concerns.

Heath Bell heard that the Sox might be interested in him & he said he'd like it. Playing with A-Gon again would be plus.


Get on it, Cherington!!!

Hopefully we make a run at him.

Dont worry everyone according to 985 the Sox are interested in Freddy Garcia. Bens got this

I cant even....



Watch this be called another 'bridge year'.

Did anyone see what Wakefield's agent said? I hate Tim Wakefield he can go **** himself and that stupid ****ing record.

also:

http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/this-just-in/21155641/source-sox-meet-agent-oswalt-wilson

I don't want Wilson. I'd take Oswalt if the price is right.

If Wakefield is on this team next season I am going to kick someone in the face. He is cooked.

Walso, Orsillo is staying with NESN, Heidi Watney is moving back to CA.

If Wakefield is on this team next season I am going to kick someone in the face. He is cooked.

Walso, Orsillo is staying with NESN, Heidi Watney is moving back to CA.

I love Wakefield strategy:

- Fans *deserve* too see me pitch and beat the record :laugh:

- Wake will win 15 games elsewhere :biglaugh:

If it's not desperation, i don't know what it is...

I love Wakefield strategy:

- Fans *deserve* too see me pitch and beat the record :laugh:

- Wake will win 15 games elsewhere :biglaugh:

If it's not desperation, i don't know what it is...

No, we as fans deserve to see a team that doesn't trot out a corpse every 5 days.

Wake needs to realize he's done a lot in his career and just call it a day.

I'd like Buehrle if only because he doesn't take 10 minutes to throw 10 pitches...looking at you Mr. Beckett....

Barry Meister's comments are a shining example of what's been wrong with the Red Sox over the last few years: too many "good ole Sox" passengers who feel their roster spot is a divine right and a front office that is all too happy to keep the jerseys moving.

Barry Meister's comments are a shining example of what's been wrong with the Red Sox over the last few years: too many "good ole Sox" passengers who feel their roster spot is a divine right and a front office that is all too happy to keep the jerseys moving.

Agree time to cut the dead weight of the "privileged" old players such as Wakefield, Varitek, Ortiz, etc.

Heidi Watney is gone.



Someone call Tek and let him know

Heidi Watney is gone.



Someone call Tek and let him know

Damn first Tappen and now Watney, daaaaaaaaaamn. :cry:

Is it just me that finds the fact that Sveum is the Red Sox first choice for manager and he may now take the Cubs job over theirs?

As Peter Gammonds said, after the media thrashing of Tito, and everything that transpired after, nobody really wants to come here.


I dont blame them. We are literally a walking circus.

I'd like Buehrle if only because he doesn't take 10 minutes to throw 10 pitches...looking at you Mr. Beckett....

C'mon....Kentucky Joe West would love to see him in the middle of Sox/Yanks game. ROFL

We might as well get a puppet for a coach because that's what the next manager will be - a puppet pulled on strings by the owners.

^ yep

In that case give me Bobby V.


I want meltdowns. I want a manager that will say F you to the mgmt & players when its needed.

Bobby V would bring me such joy. NOBODY wants to come here and be a puppet after that crap we went through last year. And you know what? Who can blame em? Not me!

As Peter Gammonds said, after the media thrashing of Tito, and everything that transpired after, nobody really wants to come here.


I dont blame them. We are literally a walking circus.

It's really hard to like this organization right now..

Talk about messing a process. They look like clowns and the fear that some fans had about Cherington being Lucchino's little pet seem to be real...